Aided by an at-times hilarious Powerpoint presentation, and several running gags that recur throughout both episodes, Wuhl skewers targets right and left, both literally (i.e., politically) and figuratively. Showing that the vagaries of pop culture didn't start with the Britney and Lindsay era (at least in America) and drawing a surprisingly apt (even genetic) correspondence between Chief Execu-twits Franklin Pierce and George W. Bush, Wuhl moves seamlessly from subject to subject and seems to be enthralling his mostly teen and early 20-something audience.

Interpolated between Wuhl's historical stand-up routines are some nice counterpoint talking head moments from everyone from Jeff Greenfield to Sarah Vowell to Seth Rogen, but this is ultimately Wuhl's show all the way, and he deserves an A+ for effort, content and delivery.

The DVD

Video:
A full frame, shot on video image is acceptable. You're here for the comedy, not the stunning vistas of classrooms.

Sound:
Again, the standard stereo soundtrack is just fine.

Extras:
None, unfortunately, and I know I was fascinated to find out what sparked Wuhl's expertise in this area.

Final Thoughts:
This may not be an in-depth history lesson (though perhaps if it became an actual series, it could become one), but it's a great little gem consisting of various nuggets that have been discarded by the wayside of history's main thoroughfare. Wuhl makes a very engaging Professor and the "lessons" are funny and at times thought-provoking.

____________________________________________
"G-d made stars galore" & "Hey, what kind of a crappy fortune is this?" ZMK, modern prophet